Psychological and Psychosocial Interventions in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objective: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is typically treated with medications however psychological and psychosocial interventions are recommended for symptoms that persist despite pharmacological treatment. This study aims to review randomized controlled trials focusing on the psychological and psychosocial interventions in the treatment of ADHD. Method: Eight databases were searched using keyword pairs ADHD and therapy, ADHD and psychological treatment, ADHD and psychosocial treatment, ADHD and CBT, attention deficit and therapy, attention deficit and psychological treatment, attention deficit and psychosocial treatment, attention deficit and CBT. The search was conducted at March 2022. Results: Forty-five studies met the inclusion criteria. Of these studies, 51% included the child and adolescent age group, 49% included the adult age. In 87% of these studies, psychosocial interventions, when implemented in addition to medication, resulted in significant improvements in ADHD symptoms. Conclusion: The results indicate that the use of psychosocial interventions, in addition to medical approaches, makes significant contributions to the treatment of ADHD. There is a need for studies investigating the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in the treatment of ADHD in Turkiye.